I think it's very important to remember that so much of the work that gets done between countries is not done at the level of presidents, but is done within various agencies, whether it's law enforcement or economic ministries. And when they establish relationships and systems of communications and shared projects and shared visions, those structures continue even after any particular president is gone. It builds trust and understanding between countries that are critically important.
Barack ObamaMy fellow Americans, we are and always will be a nation of immigrants. We were strangers once, too.
Barack ObamaLet's remember that our leadership is defined not just by our defence against threats, but by the enormous opportunities to do good and promote understanding.
Barack ObamaWe should never hesitate to use military force, and I will not, as president, in order to keep the American people safe. But we have to use our military wisely. And we did not use our military wisely in Iraq.
Barack ObamaWe must build a world free of unnecessary barriers, stereotypes, and discrimination. ... policies must be developed, attitudes must be shaped, and buildings and organizations must be designed to ensure that everyone has a chance to get the education they need and live independently as full citizens in their communities.
Barack Obama